Grassroots science

Abstract

This article argues that a mix of different values guides contemporary scientists and engineers in their work. The conventional dichotomy between academic science and technological research and development is hereby transcended. However, on the analytical level distinctions between different kinds of research activities are considered helpful. Three sets of norms that define different categories of research activities are presented: The CUDOS ethos that defines academic science, the PLACE set of norms that defines industrial and military technological research, and the ‘ISYP Ideal’ that defines ‘grassroots science’ – a scientific endeavour that explicitly addresses the problems facing humanity. This analytical tool (i.e. the three sets of norms) is used to analyse the activities of International Student/Young Pugwash.